The Tamil Nadu city of Madurai is best known for its crown jewel: the enormous Meenakshi Amman Temple. This massive temple complex, dating back centuries, is a fine example of South Indian temple architecture and is among the region's holiest pilgrimage spots. While visiting it is a must, there are plenty of other things to do in Madurai, from sampling local cuisine on food tours to taking day trips to nearby destinations such as the holy town of Rameshwaram and the hill station of Kodaikanal.
Madurai draws in crowds of visitors throughout the year, most of whom come to pay their respects at the Meenakshi Amman Temple, so it's good to be prepared for crowds no matter when you visit. The weather in this part of the country is most pleasant from October until March when temperatures are a little cooler and there's typically not much rainfall.
Much of Madurai is easy to explore on foot, as the main shops and restaurants are clustered around the massive Meenakshi Amman Temple, within walking distance of the Madurai Junction train station (about a 10-minute walk). The airport is about a 20-minute cab ride outside of town. Your best bet is to hire a taxi or join a tour for destinations farther afield.
Don't leave Madurai before trying out some of its famous culinary treats. You'll find all of the popular mainstays of South Indian cuisine, including dosa (crepes made from a batter of fermented rice and pulses), idli (steamed rice), and paruthi paal (cottonseed milk). Try these treats and more at the city's famous Konar Kadai restaurant, about a 10-minute walk north of the Meenakshi Amman Temple.
